State of Maine Invests $5 Million to Create More Opportunity through Internet Education and Digital Tools

Maine Connectivity Authority (MCA), the public agency leading the statewide expansion of broadband and digital equity in Maine, has opened a competitive grant program for Maine-based organizations. The program will enable greater opportunities for individuals and communities through access to digital skills, devices, internet safety education, and technical support. In the first phase of the Digital Opportunity Networks grant program application, MCA is accepting letters of intent from nonprofits, state agencies, local and Tribal governments and similar public entities. The program will fund networks of partners that can integrate digital education and technical assistance into their ongoing programs and supports, effectively reaching Maine people who face the most barriers to connectivity. MCA will evaluate grant applications using program criteria and allocate funding to organizations that demonstrate the ability to execute effectively, meet critical needs, and deliver widespread, positive impact. Interested applicants should join the next information session on January 23 at 2:15 pm to learn more. MCA will share a recording of the meeting afterward. The Digital Opportunity Networks grant program is part of addressing Maine’s ambitious goals identified in the statewide Digital Equity Plan. Achieving these goals would mean that everyone in Maine has the ability to access the internet and understands how to leverage the benefits of connectivity, particularly for targeted groups like older adults, veterans, and English-language learners.